Dreamhaven, the studio founded by Blizzard co-founder Mike Morhaime, is betting on a more focused approach with Shadowstone, a new run-based roguelike developed by Secret Door—the same team behind the critically acclaimed Sunderfolk. Unlike its predecessor, which blends RPG mechanics with tactical combat and a persistent village, Shadowstone* abandons quests and upgrades in favor of a single, high-pressure goal: escaping shadow-infested ruins in procedurally generated dungeons.

The game arrives as Dreamhaven’s first major release since a round of layoffs in 2025, following financial struggles despite Sunderfolk’s strong reviews. With Shadowstone, the studio is taking a calculated risk—stripping down the scope while leveraging the same world and some returning characters from Sunderfolk. However, it will require no prior knowledge of the original.

Close-up of a white and red mechanical keyboard with blue keys on a vibrant red surface.
  • Gameplay: Pure roguelike runs with randomized rooms, monsters, and adaptive power-ups. Each attempt presents a new challenge, demanding quick strategy shifts based on skill cards and gear.
  • Multiplayer: Supports 1–4 players in couch co-op at launch, but mobile controls—Sunderfolk’s standout feature—are delayed until full release.
  • Connection to Sunderfolk: Shares the same universe and includes familiar heroes, but stands alone with no campaign or persistent world.
  • Development: Secret Door is simultaneously overhauling Sunderfolk with a 2.0 update (March 10), adding mouse/keyboard support and online multiplayer.
  • Release: Early access expected in 2026; full release date unconfirmed.

While Shadowstone lacks the depth of Sunderfolk*, its design aligns with the roguelike trend of tight, replayable experiences. The absence of mobile controls at launch may limit accessibility, but the couch co-op mode could appeal to local groups. Whether this leaner approach will resonate with players—or help Dreamhaven recover financially—remains to be seen.

The game is already wishlist-ready on Steam and the Epic Games Store, though no official early access date has been set. For now, it represents a sharp pivot for a studio still searching for its commercial footing.